You know we have a no judgment policy around here. I fully comprehend that protein powders are an attractive option, particularly for busy professionals. Despite the fact that it’s not my bag (see?), I’m not here to express displeasure about your leans. Rather, I’ll celebrate our diversity.

Still, what kind of partner would I be to you if I didn’t offer you an alternative or two?

This morning at 5:30am, I received this text from an ambitious friend:

Morning! Question for you…What do you think of protein powder? Do you like it or do you consider it processed food?

Clearly, my friend doesn’t follow the blog. Otherwise, she’d know that the powders are among our most heavily processed options and are often laced with the most artificial of ingredients. Even the most “natural” of powders has been altered to isolate the proteins and is delivered in a way your body doesn’t recognize.

The conversation can always end with the identification of the issue and without a suggested solution. Zzzzzz. Those types of interactions are exhausting. We aim to inspire and be inspired.

Without further ado, here are a few ideas for you to a) optimize for efficiency and b) riff on in the comment section below.

• Cut a huge salmon filet into five pieces. Coarse sea salt, paprika, lemon, cayenne pepper, olive oil. Hot grill, three minutes each side. Into foil, into fridge. One piece for 5 days.
• Whole Foods (I hate that I’m selling a corporation…ugh) has whole, organic, prepared chickens seasoned only with salt and pepper. Now, I’ll admit I’m a bit of savage. Let me preface what I’m about to say with a) I’m not afraid of germs, and b) this method isn’t for everyone. I suggest ripping off random chunks of flesh in random proportions in lieu of blending artificially flavored beverages. Eat the bones. They rule. It takes some practice, but I’ll take down a chicken in roughly 2 days.
• Season some grass fed, organic ground beef with garlic powder, salt and pepper. Shape into patties. Cook in a pan with some olive oil and coconut oil.

You don’t have to fall for the marketing idea that protein must be delivered in precise intervals. And though we’re all busy, these ideas require no more time or effort than blending up the powder into a shake. Your body will be happier. So will your wallet. Plus, with all the added benefits that come from eating real, whole foods, you can toss out the fish oil supplements you’ve been washing down with the protein shake.

Be well,

Kap